Numbers Grow For Mountbatten's Husky Challenge

In support of Mountbatten Isle of Wight, an incredible 16 people have signed up to take on an epic fundraising adventure, sledding over 240km through untouched natural landscapes and past beautiful scenic views, all while tending to a pack of husky dogs.

In March 2026, this once-in-a-lifetime adventure will finish at Sweden's world-famous

Ice Hotel.

Mountbatten Isle of Wight is working with specialist charity challenge event provider,

Global Adventure Challenges, to offer this unique experience and the limited places

that were available flew out the door.

Now, we can reveal some of the intrepid supporters who have signed up for this amazing opportunity, each aiming to raise thousands of pounds to ensure Mountbatten's expert nurses and doctors can continue to deliver vital end-of-life care to Islanders in their own homes and in our Newport hospice.

We asked them....Why take on Mountbatten Isle of Wight's Lapland Husky Trail challenge?

Jamie Webster, director of RenoDrain, is taking part in memory of his parents.

He said:

"This challenge means more to me than just an adventure.

"It's in honour of my dad and in gratitude for the palliative care and end-of-life care my mum received.

"I'm hoping not only to complete this challenge but to raise vital funds to support others in need."

Zoe Mann said:

"A few years ago, when my brilliant mum became unwell, we were so fortunate the Mountbatten team was constantly by our sides, looking after Mum and supporting our family.

"They delivered so much compassion and kindness, as well as the strength we needed to get through such a tough time.

"My mum always believed in giving back and also making each day count.

"A year after she died, I climbed Kilimanjaro to raise money for the Mountbatten staff who played such a pivotal role in making her last months peaceful and happy."

"Being part of the husky sled challenge will bring new experiences, new friends and help raise all-important funds for Mountbatten."

Craig Martell, who is adventuring with his partner, Vanda Niemiec, said:

"I began my involvement with Mountbatten when I returned from an extended travel period in 2006 and needed a way of getting back into the world of employment.

"I volunteered as an assistant in the occupational therapy team and for the John Cheverton Centre café.

"In 2022, Mountbatten helped my father, supplying a hospital bed in his home which

allowed him to stay there for his last days.

"When he died, a Mountbatten nurse was present and made our time of sadness far easier, with her help and support."

Vanda added:

"I have been volunteering with Mountbatten for over ten years, collecting yellow charity boxes from shops and businesses, helping with events and marshalling for Walk the Wight.

"I have previously spent a day husky sledding in Finland and it was one of my most memorable experiences.

"Craig and I thought this challenge would be a fun way to further support Mountbatten and encourage us to get fit."

How to support the Lapland Husky Trail adventure

If you can't be there yourself, the next best thing is to support the 16 people who will be taking on the challenge in aid of Mountbatten Isle of Wight.

CLICK HERE to visit their fundraising page.